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ISLAMABAD:
The Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), the capital’s main public hospital, has been placed on high alert until September 30 in view of the prevailing situation.
The administration has ordered round-the-clock emergency preparedness, uninterrupted ambulance services and the availability of essential medical staff and supplies.
According to a high-alert circular issued by the PIMS administration on Sunday, heads of all clinical and non-clinical departments have been directed to remain at their stations, while duty rosters are to be kept updated and essential staff made available around the clock.
Medical leave is the only exception to restrictions placed on staff leave during the high-alert period. The circular ordered that ambulance services remain available 24 hours a day throughout the period.
Director Emergency PIMS Dr Sharjeel Zaheer has been designated as the focal person for any emergency situation.
The emergency department, intensive care units, operating theatres, trauma services, nursing and diagnostic departments have been directed to remain fully operational.
The hospital’s blood bank and pharmacy services have also been ordered to remain fully functional.
The administration has directed that additional beds be kept available in case of a large influx of patients. Additional stretchers and wheelchairs are also to be made available for such a situation.
